Location & Transportation

Centennial Chestnut Farm sits in the tranquil countryside of Miyun District, Beijing, nestled in Houliyuan Village, Mujiayu Town. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Beijing, making it a perfect escape from the city hustle. To get there, you can either drive along the G45 Daguang Highway and follow signs to Miyun, or take a local bus from Dongzhimen Station (Line 2) to Miyun, then transfer to a taxi for the final 10-minute ride. The farm’s address, “East of Houliyuan Village,” is easy to locate with navigation apps.

Natural Landscape

The farm sprawls across lush hills dotted with centuries-old chestnut trees—hence its name. In spring, wildflowers blanket the slopes, while autumn paints the area in shades of amber. A winding stream cuts through the property, where kids love splashing in shallow waters. For nature lovers, early mornings here are magical: mist rises over the trees, and birdsong fills the air. It’s a rare chance to breathe clean, organic-certified air just an hour from Beijing!

Cultural Highlights

At Centennial Chestnut Farm, farming isn’t just a hobby—it’s history. The farm showcases traditional Chinese farming tools, like wooden plows and stone mills, alongside modern organic practices. Visitors can watch Beijing Youji Chickens (a local breed) clucking freely, learning how the farm raises them without chemicals. Guided tours explain how chestnuts are harvested and processed, blending old-world techniques with eco-friendly innovation.

Family-Friendly Activities

Centennial Chestnut Farm is a playground for all ages. Kids can feed goats, sheep, and rabbits at the petting zoo, or climb a giant straw bale pyramid. Parents might enjoy horseback riding lessons, while teens test their fishing skills at the lake. Seasonal fruit picking (peaches, apples, grapes) lets families compete over who spots the ripest produce. For a quieter afternoon, rent a bike to explore trails lined with sunflowers and lavender fields.

Dining & Relaxation

After working up an appetite, head to the farm’s restaurant, which uses ingredients straight from the fields. Try roasted chestnuts stuffed with pork, or a grilled vegetable platter drizzled with farm-made honey. BBQ enthusiasts can fire up private grills for alfresco dining. For pure relaxation, lounge in a hammock under ancient chestnut trees—the perfect spot for a nap or stargazing after sunset.

Membership Magic

While open to the public, Centennial Chestnut Farm really shines for its members. They get exclusive access to events like harvest festivals, moonlit picnics, and workshops on making organic soap. Members-only areas include a cozy library stocked with farming books and a teahouse serving chestnut-infused teas. It’s like having a private countryside retreat, with none of the hassle!

A Day in the Life

Start your visit with a 9 AM tractor tour of the farm (kids love riding!). Spend mid-morning feeding chickens and collecting eggs. Lunch at the farmhouse is a feast of seasonal dishes. Afternoon options: race goats, try archery, or join a bread-making class. End the day with a sunset hike to the highest hill for photos of the Beijing skyline in the distance.

Whether you’re a city slicker craving green space or a family seeking screen-free fun, Centennial Chestnut Farm delivers. Pro tip: Visit in late September for the chestnut festival, when roasting chestnuts over open fire becomes an art form!